These days, we are faced with a multitude of diseases and diabetes is on top of the list of deadly conditions. This can prove to be challenging for some people. The goal for diabetics is to maintain blood sugar levels within ranges recommended by your doctor.

You want to avoid constant high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) above or blood sugar levels below (hypoglycemia) your target range. Maintaining a good diet with eating the proper foods along with regular exercise is key to controlling the disease.

Proper Food

Take the time to understand the foods that directly affect your blood sugar levels. Identifying the foods that have little affect to blood sugar levels will need to be added to your daily eating habits. Not only eating the proper food is critical, the portions you consume factors on maintaining proper levels. You should always consult with your doctor and/or dietitian for the best food choices for you.

• Maintaining the proper carbohydrate intake is first foremost in a diabetic diet as it normally has the biggest impact on blood sugar levels. Learn to properly factor carbohydrate into your diet and know what type of carbohydrates are our there.
• Make sure to have a proper balance of carbohydrates with other meal choices. It always helps to measure and weigh your food portions accordingly to match your diet. If you have to, add a schedule, possibly taped in your cupboard drawer doors or refrigerator to keep you on track.
• Plan for a well-balanced meal. A balanced meal for diabetics should contain a nice mix of fruits, vegetables, proteins, fats, and starches.

Regular Exercise

Staying physically active is important for successful diabetes control. I don’t mean you need to run a marathon, a simple 30-minute walk every day will help lower blood sugar but the more intense the workout the better. Physical activity helps for better control of insulin as the muscles use sugar (glucose) for energy during workouts.

• Consult with a health professional to determine an exercise plan for you.
• Keep a schedule of your exercises. It’s easier to monitor your workouts if it’s on a schedule. There are some great health related apps to help keeping a schedule.
• Understand where your blood level numbers are before working out. Getting low blood sugar levels during workouts can be dangerous. It’s always good to have some snacks like an apple or orange during your workouts.
• Drink enough water before and during workouts because dehydration can influence blood sugar levels.